JP7302020B2 - High aspect ratio camera tripod that fits tightly - Google Patents

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is the subject of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/847,174, filed May 13, 2019, and January 24, 2020, each of which is incorporated by this reference in its entirety. It claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/965,597 filed.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 16/501,118, filed May 13, 2019, which is incorporated by this reference in its entirety.

The present invention relates generally to the field of photography, and more particularly to a new and useful close-packed high aspect ratio camera tripod for the field of photography.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a tripod. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a tripod. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a tripod. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a tripod. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a tripod. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the hanging hook and mobile mount. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams of mobile mounts. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams of leg clamps. 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams of the leg assembly. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a hub. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a tripod. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a camera lock hub.

The following descriptions of embodiments of the invention are not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments, but rather to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. intended to

1. Tripod As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the tripod 100 is a hub 140 defining a central bore 142 and a set of leg mounts 144 arranged in a radial pattern around the central bore 142, and a set of legs 160. , each leg 160 in the set of legs 160 is pivotally coupled to one leg mount 144 in the set of leg mounts 144 and configured to telescopically extend from the hub 140. and a central column 150 configured to translate within the central bore 142 of the hub 140 and including a spherical end 156 configured to fit snugly between the leg mounts 144 . The tripod further includes a head 110 pivotally coupled to spherical end 156, head 110 disposed on base section 112 and defining rail 134 and locking tab 132, and , a camera platform 130 configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to the camera; a set of flanges 114 extending around a portion of 156 and configured to fit between the leg mounts 144 and a hat 116 positioned within the base section 112 over the spherical end 156; , disposed about base section 112 to press hat 116 against spherical end 156 to fix the orientation of head 110 on spherical end 156 in response to rotation about base section 112 in a first direction. and configured to retract hat 116 from spherical end 156 to unlock head 110 from spherical end 156 in response to rotation about base section 112 in a second direction. and a pivot control ring 124 .

In one variation, the tripod further includes a camera locking ring 126 located proximal to and concentric with the pivot control ring 124 and attached to the camera adapter. is configured to move the camera locking tab 132 toward the rail 134 to temporarily lock the camera between the camera locking tab 132 and the rail 134 .

Tripod 100 includes a set of legs 160 . Each leg 160 of the tripod 100 can include a series of telescoping telescoping leg segments 162, with each leg segment--other than the first, largest leg segment--in the leg being an adjacent leg segment of larger cross-section. It is configured to fit snugly within a larger leg segment. Additionally, the distal end of each leg segment in the leg--other than the last, smallest leg segment--can include a clamp assembly configured to selectively clamp adjacent smaller leg segments 162. , thereby allowing the smaller leg segment 162 to contract within the adjacent larger leg segment 162 . Each leg connects to hub 140 via a leg mount 144 that includes a multi-stage leg locating stop.

In one variation, the tripod 100 includes a spherical end 156 and a head 110 pivotally coupled to the spherical end 156, the head 110 being positioned on a base section 112 and above the base section 112. and extending along the central axis of the head 110 and positioned above the spherical end 156, the camera platform 130 configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to the camera; , a threaded section 118, a sun gear 120 threaded onto the threaded section 118 and configured to translate along the threaded section 118 when rotated, and disposed on the sun gear 120; , the hat 116 facing the spherical end 156 , a spring 117 disposed between the hat 116 and the sun gear 120 and configured to press the hat 116 against the spherical end 156 ; A set of planetary gears 122 disposed about and meshed with the sun gear 120 and extending from the base section 112 on the opposite side of the camera platform 130 and about a portion of the spherical end 156 . and a set of flanges 114 extending and arranged in a radial pattern around the spherical end 156 . In this variation, the tripod 100 further includes a pivot control ring 124 disposed about the base section 112, the pivot control ring 124 including a ring gear meshed with the set of planetary gears 122, and , rotates sun gear 120 about threaded section 118 via a set of planetary gears 122 in response to rotation about base section 112 in a first direction to move hat 116 toward spherical end 156 . , configured to clamp the spherical end 156 against the set of flanges 114 to fix the orientation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156, and in a second direction opposite the first direction. In response to rotation, sun gear 120 is rotated about threaded section 118 via set of planetary gears 122 to retract hat 116 from spherical end 156 and to unlock head 110 from spherical end 156 . configured to

2. Applications In general, the tripod 100 includes a hub 140 that defines a set of leg mounts 144 that are pivotally coupled to a set of legs 160, and a user-adjustable angle relative to the hub and legs—attached to the head 110—to pitch the camera. and a head 110 that includes a set of stack control rings that allow quick adjustment of yaw and roll as well as quick one-handed installation, locking, and removal of the camera in the same position. More specifically, the tripod 100 includes a set of stacking control rings that fit in one compact hand so that the user can manipulate the position of the camera and control the camera. Allows quick attachment and detachment from the tripod 100. For example, a tripod can include a set of concentric control rings stacked directly below the camera mount, which can fully rotate in less than one full rotation (e.g., less than 360 degrees). It can be engaged and disengaged so that the user can quickly and easily move the head 110 through a full 360 degrees when panning, and tilt the head 110 when tilting (e.g., pitch and roll). It is possible to easily move 110 through nearly 180 degrees, as well as completely and securely lock tripod 100 in place without changing hand position or removing hand from head 110 .

Additionally, by including a set of stacked concentric control rings, the tripod 100 condenses the pan, tilt, and lock/unlock controls into one compact location, thereby extending outward from the head 110. Limiting protruding features, minimizing the effective diameter of the head 110, increasing the compactness and space efficiency of the tripod 100 when fully folded, reducing the weight of the tripod 100, and improving the tripod for the user. Improves 100 transportability, storage, and convenience.

The head 110 of the tripod 100 is mounted on a central column 150 configured to extend inside a central bore 142 of a hub 140, the hub 140 having leg mounts 144 coupled to and supporting a set of legs 160. defines a set of The central column 150 defines a spherical end 156 and the head 110 defines a set of flanges 114 extending from the bottom of the head 110 to form a socket around the spherical end 156, thereby allowing the user to allows the head 110 to tilt with respect to the hub 140 . Specifically, the head 110 defines a set of flanges 114 that are arranged in a radial pattern that matches the radial pattern of the leg mounts 144 extending from the hub 140 so that--when the tripod 100 is fully folded. To—the head 110 is radially offset (eg, by 60 degrees) from the hub 140 so that the flange 114 and leg mount 144 fit together (or “mate”), encapsulating the spherical end 156; It makes it possible to obtain high packing efficiencies in vertical direction and volume. The mating head 110, hub 140, and leg sections--so that the tripod 100 maintains a substantially constant effective diameter when folded--form a tight and robust folded condition that can be used with other equipment or Allows the user to stow the tripod 100 without external knobs or protrusions that catch on the bag flap/opening. For example, when fully collapsed (e.g., in a folded position), the tripod 100 can be approximately cylindrical with minimal negative space, thereby exhibiting high volumetric efficiency. can. Further, in this example, the central column 150--when the central column 150 is fully retracted from the hub 140 and the head 110 fits snugly around the leg mounts 144--is aligned with the inner surface of the legs 160 against the outer surface of the central column 150. Defining a triangular cross-section so that it fits (or is very close), thereby minimizing wasted space inside the cylindrical outer shape approximated by the tripod 100 in this folded state be able to.

In one variation, the radial distance between flanges 114 is the diameter of central column 150 so that head 110 can tilt about spherical end 156 through approximately 180 degrees in both the pitch and yaw directions. may be less than the directional width. For example, a user can take a first series of pictures with the user's camera--attached to head 110--held in a landscape position by head 110, and then operate pivot control ring 124 to move head 110 to a landscape position. can be quickly unlocked, tilted, and relocked to reposition the camera to portrait position. The user can also pivot to allow finer pitch adjustment of the camera in this portrait position, such as within 120 degrees less than the sum of the radial widths of the central column 150 and one flange. A control ring 124 can be manipulated to loosen the head 110 on the spherical mount.

Each leg 160 of tripod 100 includes a set of nested leg segments 162 (or "telescopic stages"), and tripod 100 also includes a central column 150, all of which cooperate to allow tripod 100 to It enables extension to a height several times (for example, four times) the height of the tripod 100 in the folded state. When unfolded, the tripod 100 occupies a variety of footprints and heights, thereby defining a robust structure for the support of heavy camera equipment (e.g., sandbags, telephoto lenses, etc.), making it easier for photographers. can support a wide range of applications and uses for

3. Head As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the head 110 includes a camera mount 130 positioned perpendicular to the central axis of the head 110 and a diametrical camera mount 130 diametrically about the central axis of the head 110 to interface with locking tabs 132 . A directionally steered camera locking ring and a flanged socket configured to receive a spherical end 156 on the central column 150—including a set of (eg, three) flanges arranged in a radial pattern—and a camera. A hat 116 interposed between the platform 130 and the spherical end 156 and configured to cooperate with a set of flanges to embrace the spherical end, and the head 110 to the spherical end 156. To lock and release head 110 from bulbous end 156 , press head 116 against bulbous end 156 and move head 116 away from bulbous end 156 . and a pivot control ring 124 that is radially operable (ie, rotatable) about the central axis of 110 .

In one embodiment, the head includes a threaded section 118 (eg, a threaded bore or a threaded shaft) extending along the central axis of head 110 and disposed above spherical end 156, and a threaded section a sun gear 120 threaded onto 118 and configured to translate along threaded section 118 when rotated; and a set of planetary gears 122 . Pivot control ring 124 may also include a ring gear mated with a set of planetary gears 122 and hat 116 may be attached to sun gear 120 . Head 110 may also include a spring 117 disposed between hat 116 and sun gear 120 opposite spherical end 156 and urging hat 116 toward spherical end 156 . and to trap the spherical end 156 between the hat 116 and the set of flanges 114, thereby unlocking the pivot control ring 124 and allowing the sun gear 120 to rotate. It limits the rotation of head 110 on bulbous end 156 even when rotated upwardly along threaded section 118 and retracted from bulbous end 156 . Rotation of the pivot control ring 124 about the head 110 in a first direction thus causes the set of planetary gears 122 to rotate in a second direction and thus the sun gear 120 to rotate in a first direction, which causes sun gear 120 to rotate down along threaded section 118, compressing spring 117 between sun gear 120 and hat 116, and securing the leading face of sun gear 120 to the back of hat 116. , thus pressing the hat 116 against the bulbous end 156 to lock the bulbous end 156 between the hat 116 and the set of flanges 114--thereby allowing the head 110 on the bulbous end 156 to Pitch, yaw and roll positions can be locked. Similarly, rotation of the pivot control ring 124 about the head 110 in a second direction causes the set of planetary gears 122 to rotate in a first direction and thus the sun gear 120 to rotate in a second direction, This causes sun gear 120 to rotate and rise along threaded section 118, retracting the front surface of sun gear 120 from the rear surface of hat 116, (partially) releasing spring 117 and thus allowing hat 116 and flange 116 to rotate. It is possible to relieve the compression of the bulbous ends 156 between sets 114 - thereby unlocking the head 110 from the bulbous ends 156 .

Accordingly, the set of threaded section 118 , sun gear 120 , and planetary gears 122 cooperate with pivot control ring 124 , hat 116 , and spherical end 156 to orient head 110 about spherical end 156 . can be locked and unlocked.

Camera platform 130 includes a substantially planar top surface configured to receive the bottom or sides of a camera, camera mount, or adapter. Camera platform 130 also includes protruding fixed rails 134 for mating with the sides of a camera, camera mount, or adapter. Manipulable locking tabs 132 cooperate with fixed rails 134 to position and retain a camera adapter attached to the camera to limit movement of the camera relative to head 110 . Additionally, the head 110 may include a spring 136 that biases the camera locking tab 132 toward the fixed rail 134 to snap the camera adapter onto the camera base 130 when the camera is mounted on the head 110 . In addition, the camera locking ring 126 defines a ramp or cam that moves and holds the camera locking tab 132 toward the fixing rail 134 to lock the camera adapter between the camera locking tab 132 and the camera fixing rail 134. can. Camera lock ring 126 slides around the central axis of head 110 . As such, securing rail 134, camera locking tab 132, spring 136, and camera locking ring 126 allow a user to hold the camera in head 110 with their left hand (e.g., while reaching for a lens in a camera bag with their right hand). Lower it down and then - while the spring 136 presses the camera locking tab 132 against the camera adapter to loosely hold the camera on the camera base 130 - rotate the camera locking ring 126 with your left hand to lock the camera into the head 110. can cooperate to allow complete locking to the

The user then slides the left hand down (eg, by approximately 10 millimeters), places the finger off the camera lock ring 126 and onto the pivot control ring 124, and rotates the pivot control ring 124 into a spherical shape. Loosen the head 110 on the end 156, adjust the tilt and pan of the head 110—and thus the camera—with respect to the hub 140 to bring the scene of interest into view of the camera, then retighten the pivot control ring 124. be able to. The user can then immediately begin filming the scene of interest.

In addition, the user can make instant pan and tilt adjustments to the camera by loosening the pivot control ring 124 with the left hand, repositioning the head 110 with the left hand, and retightening the pivot control ring 124 with the left hand. The left hand can be kept on the head 110 (with the finger in contact with the pivot control ring 124) in order to go and resume shooting.

Finally, the user can raise his or her left hand above head 110 to engage camera locking ring 126 and rotate camera locking ring 126 to release camera locking tab 132 . Spring 136 pushes camera locking tab 132 toward fixed rail 134 to retain the camera on head 110 until a user biases camera locking tab 132 (eg, with the left hand) to retrieve the camera. You can keep pushing.

Thus, head 110 may define a compact set of stacked controls that allow a user to quickly and easily install, adjust, and remove a camera from tripod 100 with one hand.

3.1 Camera Platform The camera platform 130 includes a camera platform 130 (e.g., a grooved or textured surface) configured to support the vertical load of a camera, camera mount, or other adapter, and a camera platform 130 surface. A top section defining a fixed rail 134 extending along a first end of the camera mounting surface and defining an undercut section 190, and a passageway for the camera locking tab 132 at the second end of the camera mounting surface. can include Camera platform 130 may also include springs 136 that bias camera locking tabs 132 toward fixed rails 134 and prevent the camera from moving when the camera mount is installed on the camera mounting surface. Allows retraction of locking tab 132 . Camera locking tab 132 may similarly define an undercut section 192 and cooperate with fixed rail 134 to temporarily receive a camera, camera mount, or other adapter on the camera mounting surface. can hold. The camera base 130 also includes a threaded section 118 (or threaded shaft) configured to mate with the threaded end of the sun gear 120 and a detent surface (e.g., a bottom section that defines a spring 117 configured to engage a ridge) and a bore for a detent pin.

In one embodiment, camera platform 130 can be manufactured (eg, cast, machined) from aluminum, steel, or a hard polymer.

3.2 Camera Lock Ring In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the head 110 includes a camera lock ring 126 that is pivotally controlled proximally of the pivot control ring 124. Concentrically disposed with ring 124 and configured to move camera locking tab 132 toward fixed rail 134 to temporarily lock the camera adapter between camera locking tab 132 and fixed rail 134 .

In one embodiment, the camera lock ring 126 includes an annular ring with a detent on the first side configured to interface with a spring-loaded detent pin on the first face. A set of stops and a ramp on the second side wherein rotation of the annular ring about the central axis of the head 110 moves the camera locking tabs 132 into a series of locking positions along the ramp. A drive is configured to interlock with the camera locking tab 132 such that it dynamically secures the camera, camera mount, or camera adapter to the camera platform 130 . In this embodiment, camera locking tab 132 may be configured to recess into a camera, camera mount, and/or camera adapter to limit camera movement in response to rotation of the annular ring. Camera locking tab 132 may be spring-loaded and interface with a ramp on a ring parallel to camera platform 130 (eg, camera locking ring 126). As the annular ring rotates about the central axis of head 110 , the ramp can force the tabs to move into a fixed position to lock the camera (or camera accessory) to camera platform 130 . A series of detents are located opposite ramps on the ring and cooperate with spring-loaded detent pins to offset the locking position of the tabs.

In one variation, the camera lock ring 126 includes radially outwardly extending protrusions (eg, finger tabs) for interlocking with a user's fingers during single-handed operation. The annular ring can lie in a plane parallel to the camera platform 130 . In one variation, the ring may be placed directly below the camera platform 130 . For example, the annular ring can be manufactured in aluminum, plastic, or carbon fiber.

Thus, when the camera locking ring 126 is unlocked, the camera locking tabs 132 can pivot or slide within the camera platform 130 to engage and retain the camera mount, thus allowing use. An operator can place one end of the camera mount into the undercut section 190 of the fixed rail 134 and place the opposite end over the camera locking tab 132 and push down. When the user rotates camera locking ring 126 to the locked position, the cam surface defined by camera locking ring 126 approaches and then engages camera locking tab 132 to allow the user to lock the camera. The camera locking tab 132 is prevented from retracting from the rail 134 in response to pushing or pulling the locking tab 132 , thereby securely locking the camera mount between the camera locking tab 132 and the rail 134 .

More specifically, camera locking ring 126 allows camera locking tab 132 to over-move toward fixed rail 134 , thus acting as a secondary lock for camera platform 130 .

3.3 Locking Tabs In one embodiment, the camera locking tab 132 and spring 136 allow the user to push, pull, and/or pivot the camera without the camera locking tab 132 releasing the camera mount from the camera platform 130 . They work together to hold the camera mount—fixed to the camera—on the camera base 130 so that it can be moved without further positive locking by the camera lock ring 126 .

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 12, undercut section 190 of fixed rail 134 may be configured to mate with a first angled surface of a camera mount (or "camera adapter"). Undercut section 192 of camera locking tab 132 may be configured to mate with a second angled surface of the camera mount opposite the first angled surface. For example, undercut sections 190 , 192 of fixing rail 134 and camera locking tab 132 may define complementary 45° ramps when assembled onto camera platform 130 . In this embodiment, the camera locking tab 132 is attached to and pivots about a pivot 194 (eg, pin) located below the camera platform 130 . spring 136 is laterally offset from pivot 194 and moves (e.g., pivots) camera locking tab 132 upward to engage undercut section 192 with the second angled surface of the camera mount; Therefore, the camera mount is held on the camera platform 130 .

Specifically, the pivot 194 is along a vector that intersects and is perpendicular to the undercut section 192 of the camera locking tab and the second angled surface of the camera mount when assembled on the camera platform 130 (or nearby). Since the pivot 194 is positioned along this vector, the effective lever arm length of the camera mount that rests on the camera locking tab 132 is zero (or near zero), and—when the camera is pulled over the camera platform 130 The effective torque applied by the camera mount to the camera locking tab 132 is zero (or nearly zero), and the magnitude of the force or torque applied to the camera ( almost) separated. Further, because spring 136 is laterally offset from pivot 194, this effective torque applied to camera locking tab 132 by the camera mount is less than the opposing torque applied to camera locking tab 132 by spring 136; As a result, the camera locking tab 132 remains engaged with the camera mount regardless of the amount of force or torque applied to the camera. Therefore, when the user pushes, pulls, or pivots the camera, the resulting torque to open the camera locking tab 132 is (approximately) zero, and thus the camera locking tab 132 moves away from the camera mount. do not rotate in any direction. Accordingly, the camera locking tab 132 remains fixed in its closed position to hold the camera mount and camera in place on the camera platform 130 regardless of the force applied to the camera.

However, camera locking tab 132 can pivot about pivot 194 in response to a user directly pushing or pulling downward on camera locking tab 132, which causes undercut section 192 to remain on the camera mount. , away from the adjacent second ramp to allow the user to lift the camera and camera mount off the camera platform 130 .

In addition, camera locking tabs 132 are positioned on pivot 194 in response to a downward force applied by the camera mount to the top of camera locking tabs 132 above undercut section 192 during installation of the camera mount on camera platform 130 . It can be pivoted downwardly about, thereby retracting the undercut 192 away from the camera platform 130 to allow the camera mount to move downwardly toward the camera platform 130 . Specifically, the user inserts the first angled surface of the camera mount into the undercut section 190 of the fixed rail 134, places the second angled surface of the camera mount over the camera locking tab 132, and pushes down. be able to. The force of the second angled surface of the camera mount on the camera locking tab 132 exerts a torque on the camera locking tab 132 against the spring 136 , thereby causing the camera locking tab 132 to move downward about the pivot 194 . Rotate to open the camera platform 130 to accept the camera mount. The second angled surface of the camera mount slides along the apex of the camera locking tab 132 over the undercut section 192 as the camera locking tab 132 opens and eventually falls over the apex of the locking tab 132. , the second angled surface is positioned against the undercut section 192 of the camera locking tab 132, and the base of the camera mount is now positioned at the top of the camera platform 130. in contact with the surface. Spring 136 then automatically moves camera locking tab 132 upward to securely clamp the camera mount between rail 134 and camera locking tab 132 .

3.4 Controller Housing A controller housing is interposed between the camera platform 130 and the set of flanges 144 and houses the sun gear 120, the planetary gears 122, and the hat 116, and the pivot control ring. 124 is placed below the camera lock ring 126 . The controller housing may also define a set of support surfaces or struts configured to arrange the planetary gears in a radial pattern about the central axis of head 110, as shown in FIG.

3.4.1 Pivot Control Ring The tripod includes a pivot control ring 124 that is positioned around the base section 112 of the head 110 and that rotates in response to rotation by the user. It is configured to either fix the orientation of head 110 on spherical end 156 or unlock head 110 from spherical end 156 .

The pivot control ring may define an outer annular ring, such as one that includes a splined or grooved outer surface configured for manual manipulation. The inner surface of pivot control ring 124 may also define an annular ring gear configured to mesh with a set of planetary gears 122 disposed within controller housing and camera platform 130 .

A pivot control ring may be located on the head 110 of the tripod 100 and accessible by hand. Rotating the pivot control ring rotates the planetary gear 122, which causes the sun gear 120 to rotate about the threaded portion 118 within the camera base 130, thereby rotating the sun gear 120 along the central axis of the head. It is translated linearly.

3.4.2 Planetary Gearbox The tripod 100 was also located within the control housing and configured to convert the rotation of the pivotal control ring 124 into linear motion of the hat 116 - the sun gear 120 and the planetary gear 122 . Includes set - with planetary gearbox.

Sun gear 120 rotates about the central axis of head 110 . The height of the sun gear 120 approximates (or is equal to) the height of the planetary gears 122 plus the range of vertical motion of the sun gear 120 between the locked and unlocked positions of the pivot control ring 124. exceed) get. Sun gear 120 includes a coaxial (inner or outer) threaded section that mates with (i.e., threads onto) threaded section 118 in the head, so that sun gear 120 pivots control ring 124 . is rotated about the head 110, it rises and falls within the head—thus causing the hat 116 to retract and advance relative to the spherical end 156. For example, threaded section 118 and sun gear 120 in head 110 may define a single-lead or double-lead Acme thread, which is adjusted when sun gear 120 is rotated via pivot control ring 124. , the friction between the threaded section 118 and the sun gear 120 can be limited.

In addition, each planetary gear 122 may include a shaft or pin that extends parallel to the central axis of head 110 and is received in complementary mounting bores in controller housing and camera base 130 and pivots. Pivot control ring 124 and 124 so that rotation of control ring 124 rotates sun gear 120 about threaded section 118 to raise and lower sun gear 120--and thus hat 116--relative to spherical end 156. Both of the sun gears 120 can be meshed. In one variation, pivot control ring 124 may be positioned coaxially with camera lock ring 126 directly below camera lock ring 126 .

3.4.3 Friction Hat In one embodiment, the friction hat 116 (hereinafter “hat”) is adjacent to the sun gear 120 . For example, sun gear 120 is coaxial with threaded section 118 facing spherical end 156 and configured to engage and embrace spherical end 156 when actuated by pivot control ring 124 . It may include a concave spherical cup section.

Alternatively, hat 116 may be separate from sun gear 120 and coupled to sun gear 120 . For example, sun gear 120 may define a shoulder (or bore) coaxial with threaded section 118, hat 116 meshing with and sliding along the shoulder (or bore) of sun gear 120, and It can include complementary features that rotate about it. In this embodiment, hat 116 also has a threaded section 118 facing spherical end 156 and configured to engage and embrace spherical end 156 when actuated by pivot control ring 124 . may define a concave spherical cup section coaxial with the . Tripod 100 also has a spring disposed about this shoulder (or within this bore) and configured to bias the rear surface of hat 116 away from sun gear 120 toward spherical end 156 . 117. Alternatively, sets of (e.g., three) counterbores may be arranged in a radial pattern around the sun gear 120 and/or the hat 116, with sets of springs 117 installed within these counterbores to may be biased toward spherical end 156 in a direction away from sun gear 120 .

Thus, spring 117 can urge the rear face of hat 116 from sun gear 120 toward spherical end 156 . As the pivot control ring 124 is rotated toward the locked position, the sun gear 120 moves downward along the threaded section 118 toward the spherical end 156 so that the shoulder (or bore) enters the hat 116 . It can move, thereby compressing the spring 117 . Additionally, hat 116 is radially separated from sun gear 120 and biases spherical end 156 with spring 117 so that hat 116 is forced to move sun gear 120 downward toward spherical end 156 . It can remain stationary against the bulbous end 156 as it is pulled, thereby reducing wear on the hat 116 and the bulbous end 156 . Further rotation of the pivot control ring 124 brings the front surface of the sun gear 120 into contact with the rear surface of the hat 116 to firmly lock the hat 116 against the spherical end 156 so that the spherical end 156 is aligned with the hat. Firmly locked between 116 and the set of flanges 114 .

More specifically, when pivot control ring 124 is rotated in a first direction, a ring gear incorporated in pivot control ring 124 rotates a set of planetary gears 122 which rotates a set of planetary gears 122. , rotates sun gear 120 in a first direction, thereby unscrewing sun gear 120 from threaded section 118 of head 110 and forcing hat 116 against lower spherical end 156, thus causing lower spherical end 156 to rotate. A spherical end 156 is clamped against a flange 114 extending from the base section around 156 . Similarly, when the pivot control ring 124 is rotated in the opposite direction, the ring gear rotates the set of planetary gears 122, which in turn rotates the sun gear 120 in a second direction, and so on. , the sun gear 120 is threaded into the threaded section 118 of the head 110 and the hat 116 is retracted from the lower spherical end 156 , thus releasing the spherical end from the lower flange 114 .

Additionally, as sun gear 120 is retracted from spherical end 156 , spring 117 maintains a minimal amount of friction between hat 116 and spherical end 156 to allow the user to pivot control ring 124 . To maintain the orientation of head 110 relative to the spherical mount and prevent rotation of head 110 relative to spherical end 156 , such as when rotating the hat 116 in a first direction to clamp hat 116 against spherical end 156 . It can act to press against the spherical end 156 . More specifically, spring 117 and hat 116 engage spherical end 156 when pivot control ring 124 is rotated—such as in one hand—in a first direction to clamp hat 116 onto spherical end 156 . They can cooperate to oppose the torque applied to the pivot control ring 124 to prevent rotation of the head 110 relative to the portion 156 .

3.4.4 Panning Control Ring In one embodiment, the head 110 includes a panning control ring 128 . In this embodiment, the head defines an upper body that is coupled to base section 112 and rotatable about the pan axis of base section 112 . A panning control ring 128 is positioned between a camera lock ring 126 positioned on the top section and a pivot control ring 124 positioned on the base section 112 and is a first panning control ring about the base section 112 . It may be configured to lock the upper body to the lower body in response to rotation in direction. Additionally, panning control ring 128 may be configured to unlock the upper body from base section 112 in response to rotation in the second direction.

For example, the controller housing may couple to the camera platform 130 via radial bearings or bushings and define an upper section that includes a second threaded section. The camera platform 130 can include a shoulder adjacent the upper section of the controller housing, and the panning control ring 128 is threaded onto the second threaded section and abuts the shoulder of the controller housing. . In this example, rotation of the pan control ring 128 in the first direction screws the pan control ring 128 down onto the second threaded section, thereby pulling the shoulder of the camera platform 130 between the pan control ring 128 and the controller housing. engage and constrain between Rotation of the pan control ring in the second direction unthreads the pan control ring 128 from the second threaded section, thereby releasing the shoulder of the camera platform 130 from between the pan control ring 128 and the controller housing. and allows the camera platform 130 to rotate—or “pan”—about the controller housing.

The panning control ring 128 can be operated with one hand by the user by actuating the ring radially about the central axis of the head 110 .

3.4.5 Stacked Control Rings The control rings on head 110 are arranged such that all control rings are operated by rotating each control ring about a common central axis (eg, the central axis of head 110). can be stacked on parallel surfaces. The stacked configuration allows the user to operate all controls using one hand and creates a compact and robust form factor. The control rings may each have a unique outer texture (eg, splined, knurled, etc.) such that a user can identify each control ring by touch/feel alone.

To maintain a small form factor and small effective diameter, head 110 may not include screw knobs or hand knobs. Additionally, each control ring is fully engaged or disengaged with one (or less) rotation so that a user can lock or unlock all control rings in a single motion. obtain.

In one embodiment, head 110 includes a set of stacked control rings including camera lock ring 126 , panning control ring 128 and pivot control ring 124 . Head 110 includes an upper body coupled to base section 112 and rotatable about the pan axis of base section 112 . In this embodiment, panning control ring 128 is located between camera lock ring 126 located on the top section of head 110 and pivot control ring 124 located on base section 112 . Additionally, panning control ring 128 locks the upper body of head 110 to base section 112 of head 110 in response to rotation about base section 112 in a first direction and responds to rotation in a second direction. to unlock the upper body from the base section 112 . Thus, when the upper body is unlocked from the base section, the camera lock ring 126 is positioned on the upper section of the head 110 and is locked together with the other components (eg, locking tabs 132, rails 134) on the upper section. Interacting and pivoting control ring 124 is disposed on base section 112 and interacts with components on base section 112 (e.g., hat 116, sun gear 120, planet gear 122) and downwardly rotates. so that the user can continue to operate each control ring.

3.5 Base Section The second side of the base section 112 includes a set of flanges 114 extending downwardly from the head 110, the set of flanges 114 configured to receive and retain the spherical end 156. Forms an exposed spherical socket.

In one embodiment, the spherical socket includes three flanges 114 spaced 120 degrees around the central axis of head 110 . Flanges 114 fit (e.g., snugly) between leg mounts 144 of hub 140 section when tripod 100 is in a fully or partially collapsed state for vertical packing efficiency. can be configured to fit). Each flange includes a concave surface on the side facing the inner socket area. A socket bushing may be positioned between flange 114 and spherical end 156 . When the pivot control ring 124 is engaged, the reaction force against the inner surface of the flange 114 engages the spherical socket bushing, which locks the spherical end 156 in a fixed position.

In one embodiment, base section 112 includes a set of flanges 114 each defining a compliant tip that contacts spherical end 156 . Spherical end 156 may include a base material (eg, an aluminum base material) and a surface coating welded onto the base material so that the compliant tip of flange 114 conforms to the surface of spherical end 156 . come into contact with the coating. The spring 117 of the head 110 may be preloaded to trap the spherical end 156 between the hat 116 and the compliant tip of the set of flanges. In this embodiment, the spring rate and preload of the spring 117 are such that the spherical end 117 remains oriented, such as to maintain the orientation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156 during rotation of the pivot control ring 124 in the first direction. The surface finish of portion 156 and the coefficient of friction of the compliant tip of flange 114 can be matched.

For example, base section 112 may include a set of flanges 114, each including a rubber tip that contacts spherical end 156 and exhibits a coefficient of friction. Spherical end 156 may be configured to include an aluminum base material and a surface coating deposited onto the aluminum base material. Spring 117 is preloaded according to the coefficient of friction of the rubber tip of flange 114 and the surface finish of spherical end 156 .

4. Hub As shown in FIG. 10, hub 140 includes a central shaft (eg, central bore 142) configured to slidably receive central column 150, extends outwardly from the central shaft, and Lobes 146 including locking assemblies configured to interact with central column 150 and legs arranged in a radial pattern about central bores 142 and 144 and spaced between each adjacent pair of lobes 146. and a leg mount 144 configured to interface with the leg hinge joint.

Subsections of leg mounts 144, lobes 146, and central shaft are arranged such that in the fully collapsed state flange 114 of head 110 and leg mounts 144 of hub 140 and leg sections enclose spherical end 156. They can interlock to form a substantially hemispherical recess configured to receive the lower section of the spherical end 156 . By configuring the spherical end 156 to fit within the head 110 and hub 140, the tripod 100 exhibits improved vertical and volumetric efficiency and minimizes wasted space.

In one embodiment, the hub 140 section is aligned with the magnetic features of each other section of the tripod (eg, head 110, legs 160) such that the tripod 100 remains folded in the absence of user interaction. including a set of magnets configured to interact with the

4.1 Central Bore Hub 140 defines a central bore 142 of tripod 100 . Central bore 142 of hub 140 may be configured to not only receive central column 150, but also to lock central column 150 in place. Generally, central bore 142 defines a non-circular cross-section, thus preventing central column 150 from rotating within central bore 142 . Central bore 142 may include a shaft bushing (eg, a rubber or bronze bushing) to limit wear of central column 150 over time due to extension and retraction of central column 150 within hub 140 .

In one embodiment, central bore 142 is configured such that three non-adjacent faces of central bore 142 each form an inner surface of a hub lobe, and the remaining three non-adjacent faces of central bore 142 each form an inner surface of each leg mount section. A hexagonal cross-section having irregular sides is defined to form the inner surface of the base of the.

4.2 Hub Lobes Hub 140 includes a set of lobes 146 extending outwardly from a central shaft. Each lobe may include an interior space to hold a primary or secondary locking assembly configured to keep the central column 150 fixed or semi-fixed. In one embodiment, the space between each pair of lobes 146 is configured to fit a tripod 100 leg.

4.2.1 Central Column Lock Assembly A first lobe of hub 140 may contain the primary lock assembly. The primary locking assembly may include a cambered rocker arm disposed within the first lobe and configured to apply a force to the central column 150 when engaged by a threaded handscrew. . The rocker arm is pinned to the lower end of the rocker bar such that when the handscrew applies a force to the upper end of the rocker bar, the deflection of the rocker bar (relative to the top and bottom force points) creates a contact area in the central region of the rocker bar. can be retained. The deflection of the rocker arms allows the rocker arms to distribute forces applied to the central column 150 . Thus, a thin central column can sufficiently support the forces applied to central column 150 .

A ball-detent lock assembly may be positioned on the second lobe of hub 140 . A ball-and-detent lock assembly applies a force at a first hub plane perpendicular to the central axis of tripod 100 to hold central column 150 in a temporary fixed position. Each lobe of hub 140 may include a ball-detent lock assembly. While the spring-loaded ball is out of the detent position, the ball continues to apply force to the central column 150 .

In one variation, the primary lock assembly includes a knob 148 configured to engage a cambered rocker arm. Knob 148 allows for accessibility and easier adjustment when tripod 100 is deployed and when tripod 100 is collapsed or retracted (e.g., snug between two legs) when tripod 100 is folded or stored. To enable, it can be configured to extend. For example, the knob 148 has a screw defining a threaded end and a splined bore, a first end that is press fit into the cap, and a knob 148 that extends into and within the splined bore of the screw. A shaft (e.g., a steel shaft) defining a second splined end configured to temporarily couple to a magnetic element and a user applying a force to the cap in a direction opposite to the magnetic element. a spring configured to disengage the shaft from the magnetic element in response to (eg, pulling). In the folded state (e.g., when the tripod 100 is stored), the second end of the shaft is magnetically coupled to the splined bore by a magnetic element within the splined bore, and the magnetic element within the splined bore. kept inside. Therefore, in this folded state, the cap can fit snugly between two adjacent legs 160, thus reducing the cross-section and effective maximum diameter of tripod 100. FIG. However, when the user pulls on the cap to overcome the magnetic coupling between the shaft and the magnetic element, the shaft disengages from the magnetic element and moves outwardly from the splined bore, and the spring forces the shaft into this position. Stay extended. In this extended state, the cap of knob 148 is offset outwardly from the two adjacent legs, thereby allowing the user greater access to knob 148 and easier adjustment of the central column position. It is said that To return the cab to the retracted position, the user can depress the cap, thereby overcoming the spring and reconnecting the shaft to the magnetic element.

4.3 Leg Mounts Generally, leg mounts 144 are configured to connect each leg of the leg section to hub 140 at a hinge joint. The leg mounts 144 are also configured so that the spherical socket flanges 114 fit between the leg mounts 144 when the central column 150 is fully depressed into the collapsed state.

In one embodiment, leg mounts 144 include multiple position stops (or "stops") such that each leg can be locked in at least first and second positions. For example, the stops may be in an open position defined by legs offset from the central axis and extending outwardly from hub 140 at a first angle of 25 degrees (+/-2 degrees), and an open position offset from the central axis and A low position defined by legs extending outwardly from hub 140 at a second angle between 75 and 85 degrees (+/- 2 degrees) and a fold defined by legs approximately parallel to the central axis. It may allow the legs of the tripod 100 to operate in a series of positions, including .

4.4. Grouped Configurations Leg mounts 144 extend from hub 140 and are arranged in a radial configuration (eg, at 0 degree, 120 degree, and 240 degree intervals) about a central axis. Additionally, the inner surface of the leg hub 140 mount is hollowed-out to allow the spherical end 156 to fit snugly within the hub 140--that is, the inner surface of the leg hub 140 mount is such that the spherical end 156 fits within the hub 140. It is hollowed out to allow it to be lowered in and enclosed within the leg mount 144 . Hub 140 also defines a gap (or “aperture”) between adjacent ends of adjacent leg mounts 144 and extends downwardly from flange 114—head 110 and about the central axis of head 110. Radially spaced (e.g., at 0, 120, and 240 degree intervals like leg mounts 144) - within these gaps between leg mounts 144 when tripod 100 is folded , define a width (slightly) less than the width of the gap between adjacent leg mounts 144 to allow these flanges 114 to fit snugly, thereby reducing the overall height of the folded tripod 100 and its Increase volumetric efficiency.

Additionally, because leg mount 144 is hollowed out for spherical end 156, spherical end 156 can define a relatively large diameter, thereby allowing flange 114 and hat 116 to cooperate for comparison. A comparative It is possible to support a relatively large cantilevered mass (eg, a large telephoto lens mounted on a camera attached to head 110). For example, the diameter of spherical end 156 may be greater than the minimum distance from the top surface of hub lobe 146 to the bottom surface of pivot control ring 124 when tripod 100 is folded.

In addition, the legs 160 have magnetic and/or ferrous elements disposed proximal to their distal ends and configured to attract magnetic and/or ferrous elements in adjacent legs 160 when the tripod 100 is folded. /or a ferrous element may be included to keep these distal ends of legs 160 in close proximity during transport and prevent inadvertent expansion of legs 160 .

5. Central Column Central column 150 may be configured to translate within central bore 142 of hub 140 . Central column 150 may have a non-circular cross-section to prevent rotation of central column 150 within central bore 142 . In one embodiment, central column 150 defines a tri-lobed cross-section. In this embodiment, central bore 142 defines a three-lobed opening with lobes 146 radially centered between leg mounts 144 of hub 140 .

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, central column 150 may be segmented into sets of central column 150 modules. In this embodiment, center column 150 includes center column stub 152 and center column extension 154 , and center column stub 152 may be formed from a different material than center column extension 154 . Central column stub 152 attaches to central column extension 154 via fasteners located within access points inside spherical end 156 that are accessible when head 110 is actuated to the full 90 degree configuration. It can be attached or separated from the central column extension 154 . Additionally, modular instances of center column 150 can be added to extend the overall height of tripod 100 .

Center column stub 152 may function as center column 150 . In one embodiment, central column stub 152 may be of sufficient height such that central column stub 152 is the full range of motion for head 110 . Central column stub 152 may be separated from central column extension 154 via a fixture in an access point at spherical end 156, where the access point is such that the major plane of head 110 meets the main axis of tripod 100 (i.e., central column 150) is oriented between the spherical socket flanges 114.

Further, when the central column 150 remains retracted while the legs 160 are deployed during operation, the head 110 can remain snugly within the hub 140 section so that the hub 140 section is , mechanically engages and retains head 110 such that head 110 includes spherical socket flange 114, hat 116 and spherical end to support large cantilever loads (e.g., telephoto lenses). 156 without relying on friction to support this load.

Central column 150 may be constructed of a strong, durable material such that central column 150 supports minimal loads. In one embodiment, central column 150 is constructed from aluminum.

5.1 Spherical End The spherical end 156 may connect to the first end of the central column 150 . Generally, spherical end 156 may be received within a socket of head 110 such that head 110 may pivot about spherical end 156 . In one embodiment, spherical end 156 is coupled to the end of central column 150 opposite set of legs 160 and configured to fit between leg mounts 144 of hub 140 .

In this embodiment, the spherical end 156 is positioned so that the spherical center of the spherical end 156 lies on or out of the horizontal "pivot plane" where the pivot axis of the leg 160 intersects. can be configured to fit snugly between the leg mounts 144 so as to lie near a "pivot plane", such as less than the spherical radius of . Similarly, the spherical end 156 is positioned such that the bottom of the spherical end 156 lies below the pivot plane when the head 110 is fully pushed into the hub 140 and the bottom of the flange 114 lies in the pivot plane. It can be configured to fit snugly between the leg mounts 144 so as to sit downward.

The spherical end 156 may also include a scratch-resistant outer coating. In one embodiment, spherical end 156 is constructed from an aluminum base material and includes a scratch resistant (eg, rubberized or hard anodized) coating on the aluminum base material.

5.2 Hanging Hook A hanging hook 158 connects to the second end of the central column 150 so that the user can hang a bag or weight from the hanging hook 158 for added stability. may In general, the hanging hook 158 is retractable with a first protrusion having a first cross-section that includes a profile that matches the inner cross-section of the central column 150 and a second cross-section that matches the outer cross-section of the central column 150. a second protrusion and a hook. The first protrusion may include a set of bosses configured to mate with a set of detents on the inner wall of central column 150 . While retracted, the second protrusion allows the first protrusion to rotate inside the central column 150 so that the set of bosses can access the set of detents. When not retracted, the second protrusion limits rotation of the hanging hook 158 within the central column 150 by filling in the (non-circular) internal cross-section of the central column 150 .

In one embodiment, the hanging hook 158 can also function as a hard stop for the center column 150 so that the user can pull the center column when lifting the center shaft to its maximum height above the hub 140 . Unintentional withdrawal of 150 completely from central bore 142 is prevented. For example, the hanging hook 158 has a first end defining a hook configured to carry a weighted object and a distal end attached to the distal end of the central column opposite the head. and a second end opposite the hook configured to prevent the passage of the tip through the central bore of the hub. Thus, to release central column 150 from hub 140 , a user can first remove hanging hook 158 from the lower end of central column 150 . (After removing central column 150 from hub 140, the user can also remove mobile mount 180 from inside central column 150, as described below).

In one variation, as shown in FIG. 6, the hanging hook 158 is housed inside the central column 150--described below--with the first end defining the hook--a mobile mount 180. a second end opposite the hook that includes corresponding magnetic features incorporated into the end of the hook or a magnetic element configured to couple to a ferrous element. In this variation, when the hanging hook 158 is locked into the central column 150, the hanging hook 158 is offset above the hanging hook 158 to constrain the mobile mount 180 into the central column 150. - can cooperate with spring elements arranged in the central column 150; Additionally, when the mobile mount 180 is partially ejected from the bottom of the central column 150 but retained by the spring element, the magnetic elements within the suspension hook 158 will move the suspension hook 158 to the mobile mount 180 and the center. Magnetics within the mobile mount 180 are aligned coaxially with the bore of the column 150, thereby providing clear feedback to the user as the user inserts the hanging hook 158 into the central column 150. Can be bonded to elements or iron elements.

Additionally, when the tripod 100 is fully retracted, the central column 150 can position the hanging hooks 158 near the feet at the ends of the legs 160 so that the hooks allow the tripod 100 to be fully retracted. Physically accessible when retracted, allowing the user to hook the tripod 100 directly to a bag (e.g., camera bag or equipment bag), belt loop, or other loop for transport become.

5.3 Mobile Mount As shown in FIGS. 6, 7A and 7B, the tripod 100 may also include a foldable cell phone mount 180 (hereinafter “mobile mount”) located within the central column 150 . Generally, mobile mount 180 can be configured to receive and hold a mobile phone in an open position. Mobile mount 180 may be configured to temporarily attach to camera platform 130 . Mobile mount 180 can collapse to a diameter less than the diameter of central column 150 in the closed position. In one variation, the mobile mount 180 is spring-loaded and magnetically attached within the central column 150 such that the mobile mount 180 is - in response to removal of the hanging hook 158 at the end of the central column 150 - popping out of the central column 150 to allow the user to clamp the mobile phone within the mobile mount 180 and then expand to the deployed configuration for securing the mobile mount 180 onto the camera platform 130 of the tripod 100; Accordingly, central column 150 may define a cavity opposite spherical end 156 configured to accommodate mobile mount 180 in the collapsed state.

In one embodiment, the central column 150 defines a distal end configured to receive the hanging hook 158 described above and a magnetic element offset above the distal end of the central column 150. a spring-loaded detent including In this embodiment, the spring-loaded detents may be offset above the distal end by less than the folded length of the mobile mount 180, so that the spring-loaded detents are aligned with the folded mobile mount. Mobile mount 180 is retained within central column 150 with a portion (e.g., approximately 10 millimeters) of the opposite ends of 180 extending outside the distal end of central column 150, thereby providing a When the hanging hook 158 is removed from the central column 150 so that the user can grasp the mobile mount 180 and pull it out of the central column 150 . However, if the hanging hook 158 is installed on the end of the mobile mount 180 that hangs out of the central column 150 and is lifted into the central column 150 by the user, the spring-loaded detents will be removed from the central column 150 . It can be retracted to accommodate insertion of mobile mount 180 and hanging hook 158 into the bore.

Thus, mobile mount 180 couples a first magnetic feature configured to magnetically couple to a spring-loaded detent inside central column 150 and a ferrous component located on hanging hook 158 . and a second magnetic feature--opposite the first magnetic feature--configured to.

For example, when mobile mount 180 is folded, mobile mount 180 can define a first end that includes a first magnetic feature and a second end that includes a second magnetic feature. . The first magnetic feature can be coupled with a magnetic element disposed within central column 150 , which magnetic element is configured to retain mobile mount 180 within central column 150 . A second magnetic feature is the magnetic feature of the hanging hook 158 so that the hanging hook 158 can first connect (e.g., magnetically) to the mobile mount 180 when the hanging hook 158 is reattached to the tripod 100 . Can be combined with iron components. Additionally, the mobile mount 180 can engage a spring-loaded detent located within the central column 150 such that when the hanging hook 158 is attached to the central column 150, the mobile mount 180 will is fully inserted into central column 150 and spring 117 is compressed. Then, when the hanging hook 158 is removed from the central column 150 (e.g., by a user), the mobile mount 180 can be removed before the first magnetic feature of the mobile mount 180 engages the magnetic element in the central column 150 . , can drop (eg, drop 1 inch) within the central column 150 disengaging from the spring-loaded detents. Therefore, when the hooks are removed, the mobile mount 180 is positioned within the center column 150--without completely falling off the center column 150--so that the user can easily remove the mobile mount 180 from the center column 150. - Can drop slightly.

Once removed from the bore of central column 150, mobile mount 180 is attached to camera platform 130 to allow a user to attach a mobile device (e.g., smartphone) to tripod 100, as shown in FIG. 7A. can be attached. For example, the user can remove the hanging hook 158 from the central column 150, pull the mobile mount 180 in the folded position out of the central column 150, expand the mobile mount 180 to the open position to hold the side of the mobile device, and The mount 180 can be placed on the camera platform 130 and then the camera lock ring 126 can be rotated to lock the mobile mount 180 to the camera platform 130 . After taking a picture with the mobile device, the user can remove the mobile device from the mobile mount 180, thereby releasing the mobile mount 180 to automatically return to its folded state, and then the user can release the camera lock ring 126. Rotate to unlock the mobile mount 180 from the camera platform 130, remove the mobile mount 180 from the camera platform 130, insert the mobile mount 180 back into the central column 150, and attach the hanging hook 158 to the distal end of the central column 150. It can be returned to the end.

5.4 Central Column Geometry In one embodiment, the central column 150 defines a three-lobed cross-section, each lobe radially centered between two adjacent legs 160 extending from the leg mounts. In this embodiment, the recessed surfaces--between adjacent lobes 146--of central column 150 provide clearance for legs 160 of tripod 100 to fold more tightly, and tripod 100 as shown in FIG. Allows the to shrink to a smaller maximum width when fully collapsed. Additionally, the lobes 146 of the tripod 100 - which are radially offset 120° about the central column 150 - provide a greater effective moment of inertia and therefore a greater load (e.g., a larger camera mounted on the camera platform 130). and/or lens) and in greater extension above the hub leg mount 144 to reduce deflection and vibration. More specifically, this three-lobed central column 150 defines three recessed surfaces—radially offset by 120°—and provides greater clearance along the inner surface of the leg 160, thereby allowing the leg 160 to When fully retracted and closed, it is possible to pack into a smaller volume. Additionally, the three-lobed central column 150 exhibits a greater effective moment of inertia than a round or hexagonal column of the same dimension between recessed surfaces, such that the central column 150 is positioned higher above the hub leg mounts 144. Larger loads can be carried with less deflection and lower amplitude.

In another embodiment, central column 150 defines a cross section that includes a number of sides equal to twice the number of lobes 146 between adjacent legs extending from the leg mounts. For example, the central column 150 may be irregular, including a first set of three sides each having a first length and a second set of three sides each having a second length. A hexagonal cross-section may be defined. In this embodiment, spherical end 156 includes three flanges 114 and hub 140 includes three lobes 146 . The central column can be dynamically locked in place by a screw locking mechanism that threads into a screw along an axis perpendicular to the central principal axis.

6. Legs Each leg 160 includes a leg section 162 configured to fit within an adjacent leg section 162 by sliding along a common axis. The smaller leg section 162 may be locked in place by a set of leg section locks 172 (or "clamp assemblies"). The leg section locks 172 are actuated by flip locks (eg, c-clamps) that abut each leg joint. Generally, leg section locks 172 define a height that is significantly less than the height of leg section 162 . In one embodiment, each leg 160 includes five separate leg sections 162 .

Each leg can extend outward from a central vertical axis up to an angle defined by a multi-step leg stop (or "stop"). Each leg is configured to further spread to at least a second angle defined by the leg lock assembly in response to actuation of the multi-step leg positioning.

In one embodiment, each leg includes a shaft with six sides, three inwardly facing sides and three outwardly facing sides, so that the tripod 100 is in a fully folded state. , each inward facing surface of each leg lies parallel to the inward facing surface of the adjacent leg or the surface of the central column.

Furthermore, because each leg defines a width (e.g., spans an arc length about a central axis) that is greater than its depth, each leg of tripod 100 has a greater width than a circular leg when subjected to a yaw load. can exhibit a greater area moment of inertia in its bending axis and less deflection. Thus, legs 160 resist deflection and minimize vibration in yaw when a user rotates a camera—mounted on head 110—such as when taking video pans of a moving car. can work together as

6.1 Leg Assembly and Lightweight Mode In one variation, as shown in FIG. 9, the lower telescoping leg section allows for reduced cargo weight when the user is backpacking or otherwise. To reduce the overall weight of the tripod 100, such as when desired, it can be removed from the top leg section and replaced with a foot 164 insert for each leg of the tripod 100.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the first leg of tripod 100 includes a first, uppermost leg defining a proximal end pivotally coupled to hub leg mount 144 . A leg section and a distal end defining a notch extending circumferentially around one side of the first leg section, and a perforation, indentation, or otherwise opposite the notch as described below. and a distal end configured to retain the foot 164 and including engagement features.

In this embodiment, the first leg of tripod 100 further includes upper clamp assembly 170 . Upper clamp assembly 170 includes a c-clamp body with a longitudinal split extending along the entire height of the c-clamp body and a distal end of the first leg section. a clamping bore of internal cross-section approximating (e.g., ±1 millimeter) the outer cross-section; a lower clamping flange adjacent the first side of the longitudinal split; and a lower clamping flange adjacent the first side of the longitudinal split. an upper clamping flange positioned above the clamping flange; a lower clamping surface adjacent the second side of the longitudinal split and facing the lower clamping flange; and an adjacent second side of the longitudinal split and and an upper clamp surface facing the upper clamp flange. The upper clamp assembly also includes a leg bushing that clamps the c-clamp body to fill the gap between the clamp bore and the outer surface of the second leg section extending inwardly of the clamp bore. positioned inside the clamping bore proximal to the bottom of the and defining a gap between the inner bore of the first leg section and the outer surface of the second leg section extending inwardly of the first leg section. A flange configured to insert into the distal end of the first leg section for implantation.

In this embodiment, upper clamp assembly 170 further includes a lower clamp that temporarily pivots on the lower clamp surface, is coupled to the lower clamp flange, and extends inside the c-clamp body. so as to draw the lower clamp flange toward the lower clamp surface in the closed position to lock the upper clamp assembly 170 to the second leg section by squeezing the c-clamp body around the second leg section. and the lower clamp flange in the open position to allow the second leg section to nest within the first leg section by releasing the c-clamp body from the second leg section. It is configured to release from the lower clamping surface. Additionally, upper clamp assembly 170 includes an upper clamp that temporarily pivots on the upper clamp surface and is coupled to the upper clamp flange to clamp about the distal end of the first leg section. configured to draw the upper clamp flange toward the upper clamp surface in the closed position to lock the upper clamp assembly 170 to the first leg section by squeezing the c-clamp body; from the first leg section to allow removal of the upper clamp assembly 170, all lower leg sections, and all lower clamp assemblies from the first leg section in the open position. It is configured to release the clamp flange from the upper clamp surface.

Further, in this embodiment, the c-clamp body defines lateral splits extending laterally from opposite sides of the longitudinal split between the upper and lower clamp flanges 114 . The c-clamp body positions the lateral split next to a notch extending circumferentially around one side of the distal end of the first leg section, thereby lowering the second leg. - to the distal end of the first leg section rather than to the segment - by the upper clamp in the closed position - c - isolate the compression of the clamp body and likewise not to the upper first leg segment To the proximal end of the second leg section--by the lower clamp in the closed position--c--c-Isolate the compression of the clamp body.

As shown in FIGS. 5, 8A and 8B, the first leg can include additional leg sections (eg, second leg section, third leg section, etc.), the A c-clamp assembly (eg, leg lock 172) is interposed therebetween. Further, each leg in the tripod 100 can include leg sections of similar geometry and can include similar upper clamp assemblies.

As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, tripod 100 can further include a set of legs. In this variation, the foot is attached to the distal end of the upper leg section of that particular leg when the upper clamp assembly 170 and lower leg section—of that particular leg of tripod 100—are removed from the upper leg section. It includes a proximal end configured to be inserted. The proximal end of the foot is configured to engage a perforation, recess, or other feature defined in the distal end of the upper leg section to temporarily retain the foot relative to this leg section. Includes detents. Additionally, the foot includes a foot surface that extends longitudinally from its proximal end.

Thus, for full height range adjustment in the fully assembled mode, the user installs the lower leg section and upper clamp assembly into each first leg section and installs the central column extension 154 onto the central column stub 152 . To reduce weight and maintain the same height range adjustment in lightweight mode, the user removes the lower leg section and upper clamp assembly from each first leg section and removes the distal end of each first leg section. A foot is mounted in the end to hold the central column extension 154 on the central column stub 152 . To minimize weight in full lightweight mode, the user removes the lower leg section and upper clamp assembly from each first leg section and mounts the foot within the distal end of each first leg section. , remove the central column extension 154 from the central column 150 . However, in full lightweight mode, tripod 100 may still allow the same height adjustment. For example, the user may want the controller housing to extend above hub 140 (e.g., camera upright) or below hub leg mount 144 (e.g., camera upside down). A central column stub 152 can be mounted in the central bore 142 of the hub 140 in this state.

As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from the foregoing detailed description and drawings and from the claims, practice of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. Modifications and changes may be made to form.

Claims (17)

with a tripod,
a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged in a radial pattern around said central bore;
A set of legs, each leg in the set of legs configured to be pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts and telescopically extending from the hub. and a set of
a central column,
configured to translate within the central bore of the hub; and
a central column including spherical ends configured to fit between the leg mounts;
a head pivotally coupled to said spherical end;
wherein the head comprises
base section and
a camera platform disposed over the base section, defining a rail and locking tabs, and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera;
arranged in the radial pattern, extending below the base section opposite the camera platform, extending around a portion of the spherical end, and configured to fit between the leg mounts. a set of flanges and
a hat positioned within said base section over said spherical end;
disposed about said base section for pressing said hat against said spherical end in response to rotation about said base section in a first direction to fix the orientation of said head on said spherical end; and configured to retract the hat from the spherical end to unlock the head from the spherical end in response to rotation about the base section in a second direction. , a pivot control ring, and
A camera lock ring,
located proximal to said pivot control ring;
concentric with the pivot control ring, and
a camera locking ring configured to move the locking tab toward the rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the rail;
Equipped with a tripod. the head
a threaded section extending along the central axis of the head and disposed over the spherical end;
a sun gear threaded onto the threaded section and configured to translate along the threaded section when rotated;
a spring disposed between the hat and the sun gear and configured to urge the hat against the spherical end;
a set of planetary gears disposed about and meshing with the sun gear;
further comprising
the hat is positioned on the sun gear and faces the spherical end;
said pivot control ring comprising a ring gear meshed with said set of planetary gears, and
rotating the sun gear about the threaded section via the set of planetary gears in response to rotation about the base section in the first direction to move the hat toward the spherical end; configured to clamp the spherical end against the set of flanges to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and
rotating the sun gear about the threaded section via the set of planetary gears in response to rotation in the second direction opposite the first direction to retract the hat from the spherical end; to unlock the head from the spherical end.
A tripod according to claim 1. said head further comprising an upper body coupled to said base section and rotatable about a pan axis of said base section;
the camera lock ring is positioned on the upper section of the head ;
the pivot control ring is disposed on the base section;
The head further comprises a panning control ring, the panning control ring
interposed between the base section and the upper section, and
configured to lock the upper body to the base section in response to rotation about the base section in the first direction;
configured to unlock the upper body from the base section in response to rotation in the second direction;
A tripod according to claim 1. each leg mount in the set of leg mounts configured to position one leg in the set of legs in the open position at a first angle between approximately 23 degrees and 25 degrees from the central axis of the central column; 2. A tripod according to claim 1, defining a stop. each leg in the set of legs comprising:
operable in a series of positions including a folded position, said open position, and a low position;
legs in the set of legs are generally parallel to the central axis in the folded position;
legs in the set of legs extending outwardly from the hub at the first angle from the central axis in the open position;
legs in the set of legs extend outwardly from the hub at a second angle between 75 degrees and 8 degrees from the central axis in the low position;
A tripod according to claim 4. said head further comprising a spring disposed behind said hat opposite said spherical end and said spherical end during rotation of said pivot control ring in said first direction; 2. The tripod of claim 1, configured to bias the hat onto the spherical end to restrain rotation of the head relative to. further comprising a mobile mount, wherein the mobile mount
configured to temporarily attach to the camera platform; and
configured to expand from a folded state to an open state to hold a mobile device;
the central column defines a cavity opposite the spherical end configured to accommodate the mobile mount in the folded state;
A tripod according to claim 1. each leg in the set of legs comprising an upper leg section and a lower leg section removable from the upper leg section;
the upper leg section defines a proximal end pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts, and a distal end;
the tripod
A proximal end further comprising a set of feet, each foot in said set of feet configured to enter said distal end of an upper leg section instead of a lower leg section of one leg in said set of legs. including the part
A tripod according to claim 1. each leg of the set of legs pivots about a respective pivot axis in the same horizontal plane;
The spherical end is
characterized by a spherical center and a spherical radius, and
configured to fit snugly between the leg mounts with the spherical center offset from the horizontal plane by less than the spherical radius;
wherein the set of flanges is configured to fit snugly between the leg mounts with a bottom section of the set of flanges extending below the horizontal plane .
A tripod according to claim 1. a spherical end;
a head pivotally coupled to said spherical end;
A tripod comprising:
base section and
a camera platform positioned above the base section and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera;
a threaded section extending along the central axis of the head and disposed over the spherical end;
a sun gear threaded onto the threaded section and configured to translate along the threaded section when rotated;
a hat disposed on the sun gear and facing the spherical end;
a spring disposed between the hat and the sun gear and configured to urge the hat against the spherical end;
a set of planetary gears disposed about and meshing with the sun gear;
a set of flanges extending from the base section opposite the camera platform and extending around a portion of the spherical end and arranged in a radial pattern around the spherical end;
a pivot control ring disposed about said base section and including a ring gear meshed with said set of planetary gears;
rotating the sun gear about the threaded section via the set of planetary gears in response to rotation about the base section in a first direction to move the hat toward the spherical end; configured to clamp the spherical end against the set of flanges to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and
rotating the sun gear about the threaded section via the set of planetary gears to retract the hat from the spherical end in response to rotation in a second direction opposite the first direction; a pivot control ring configured to unlock the head from the spherical end;
with
the camera platform defines rails and locking tabs; and
further comprising a camera lock ring, said camera lock ring
located proximal to said pivot control ring;
concentric with the pivot control ring, and
A tripod configured to move the locking tab toward the rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the rail. a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged in said radial pattern around said central bore;
A set of legs, each leg in the set of legs being pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to telescopically extend downwardly from the hub. further comprising a set of legs and
the set of flanges configured to fit snugly between the leg mounts;
A tripod according to claim 10. further comprising a central column configured to translate within the central bore of the hub;
said spherical end is coupled to an end of said central column opposite said set of legs and configured to fit snugly between said leg mounts;
A tripod according to claim 11. with a tripod,
a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged in a radial pattern around said central bore;
A set of legs, each leg in the set of legs being pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to telescopically extend from the hub. , a set of legs, and
a central column,
configured to translate within the central bore of the hub; and
a central column including spherical ends configured to fit between the leg mounts;
a head pivotally coupled to said spherical end;
wherein the head comprises
base section and
a camera platform disposed over the base section, defining a rail and locking tabs, and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera;
arranged in the radial pattern, extending below the base section opposite the camera platform, extending around a portion of the spherical end, and configured to fit between the leg mounts. a set of flanges and
a threaded section extending along the central axis of the head and disposed over the spherical end;
a sun gear threaded onto the threaded section and configured to translate along the threaded section when rotated;
a hat disposed around said base section and over said sun gear and facing said spherical end;
a spring disposed between the hat and the sun gear and configured to urge the hat against the spherical end;
a set of planetary gears disposed about and meshing with the sun gear;
A pivot control ring,
positioned around said base section;
including a ring gear meshed with the set of planetary gears;
Rotate the sun gear about the threaded section via the set of planetary gears in response to rotation about the base section in a first direction, forcing the hat against the spherical end and configured to clamp an end against the set of flanges to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end;
rotating the sun gear about the threaded section via the set of planetary gears in response to rotation about the base section in a second direction opposite the first direction to rotate the hat; a pivot control ring configured to be retracted from the spherical end to unlock the head from the spherical end;
with
the camera platform further comprising a camera lock ring, the camera lock ring
located proximal to said pivot control ring;
concentric with the pivot control ring, and
A tripod configured to move the locking tab toward the rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the rail. with a tripod,
a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged in a radial pattern around said central bore;
A set of legs, each leg in the set of legs being pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to telescopically extend from the hub. , a set of legs, and
a central column,
configured to translate within the central bore of the hub; and
a central column configured to fit between the leg mounts and comprising spherical ends comprising an aluminum base material and a surface coating;
a head pivotally coupled to said spherical end;
wherein the head comprises
base section and
a camera platform disposed over the base section, defining a rail and locking tabs, and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera;
arranged in the radial pattern, extending below the base section opposite the camera platform, extending around a portion of the spherical end, and configured to fit between the leg mounts. a set of flanges, each flange in the set of flanges comprising a compliant tip that contacts the surface coating of the spherical end;
a hat positioned within said base section over said spherical end;
disposed about said base section for pressing said hat against said spherical end in response to rotation about said base section in a first direction to fix the orientation of said head on said spherical end; and configured to retract the hat from the spherical end to unlock the head from the spherical end in response to rotation about the base section in a second direction. , a pivot control ring, and
is a spring,
positioned behind said hat opposite said spherical end;
configured to bias the hat onto the spherical end to restrain rotation of the head relative to the spherical end during rotation of the pivot control ring in the first direction;
a spring preloaded to embrace said spherical end between said hat and a compliant tip of said set of flanges;
with
the camera platform further comprising a camera lock ring, the camera lock ring
located proximal to said pivot control ring;
concentric with the pivot control ring, and
A tripod configured to move the locking tab toward the rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the rail. with a tripod,
a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged in a radial pattern around said central bore;
a set of legs, each leg in said set of legs being pivotally coupled to one leg mount in said set of leg mounts and configured to telescopically extend from said hub; and a set of legs including an upper leg section and a lower leg section removable from said upper leg section;
wherein said upper leg section comprises:
defining a proximal end and a distal end pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts; and
an upper clamp assembly, said upper clamp assembly comprising:
a clamp body and a leg bushing, the clamp body comprising:
a longitudinal split extending along the height of the clamp body;
a clamping bore of internal cross-section approximating the external cross-section of said distal end;
a lower clamping flange adjacent the first side of the longitudinal split;
an upper clamping flange adjacent the first side of the longitudinal split and positioned above the lower clamping flange;
a lower clamping surface adjacent a second side of the longitudinal split and facing the lower clamping flange;
an upper clamping surface adjacent said second side of said longitudinal split and facing said upper clamping flange;
and the leg bushing defines
disposed inside the clamp bore proximal to the bottom of the clamp body for filling a gap between the clamp bore and an outer surface of a lower leg section extending inside the clamp bore; and
a flange configured to extend into the distal end to fill a gap between the inner bore of the upper leg section and the outer surface of the lower leg section extending inwardly of the upper leg section; including
The tripod further
A set of feet, each foot in the set of feet configured to penetrate the distal end of an upper leg section instead of a lower leg section of one foot in the set of feet. a set of legs, including a portion;
a central column,
configured to translate within the central bore of the hub; and
a central column including spherical ends configured to fit between the leg mounts;
a head pivotally coupled to said spherical end;
wherein the head comprises
base section and
a camera platform disposed over the base section, defining a rail and locking tabs, and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera;
arranged in the radial pattern, extending below the base section opposite the camera platform, extending around a portion of the spherical end, and configured to fit between the leg mounts. a set of flanges and
a hat positioned within said base section over said spherical end;
disposed about said base section for pressing said hat against said spherical end in response to rotation about said base section in a first direction to fix the orientation of said head on said spherical end; and configured to retract the hat from the spherical end to unlock the head from the spherical end in response to rotation about the base section in a second direction. , a pivot control ring, and
with
the camera platform further comprising a camera lock ring, the camera lock ring
located proximal to said pivot control ring;
concentric with the pivot control ring, and
A tripod configured to move the locking tab toward the rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the rail. the upper clamp assembly comprising:
a lower clamp, and an upper clamp, wherein the lower clamp
temporarily pivoting on the lower clamping surface;
coupled to said lower clamp flange;
pressing the lower clamp flange in a closed position to compress the clamp body about the inwardly extending lower leg section to lock the upper clamp assembly to the lower clamp surface; configured to attract towards, and
releasing the lower clamp flange from the lower clamp surface in an open position to release the clamp body from the lower leg section to allow the lower leg section to nest within the upper leg section; configured as
The upper clamp is
temporarily pivoting on the upper clamping surface;
coupled to said upper clamp flange;
pressing the upper clamp flange toward the upper clamp surface in a closed position to compress the clamp body about the distal end of the upper leg section to lock the upper clamp assembly to the upper leg section; configured to attract, and
in an open position to release the clamp body from the upper leg section to permit removal of the upper clamp assembly from the upper leg section and to permit removal of the lower leg section from the upper leg section; configured to release the upper clamp flange from the upper clamp surface;
A tripod according to claim 15. with a tripod,
a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged in a radial pattern around said central bore;
A set of legs, each leg in the set of legs being pivotally coupled to one leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to telescopically extend from the hub. , a set of legs, and
a central column,
configured to translate within the central bore of the hub; and
a central column including spherical ends configured to fit between the leg mounts;
a head pivotally coupled to said spherical end;
wherein the head comprises
base section and
a camera platform disposed over the base section, defining a rail and locking tabs, and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera;
arranged in the radial pattern, extending below the base section opposite the camera platform, extending around a portion of the spherical end, and configured to fit between the leg mounts. a set of flanges and
a hat disposed within said base section over said spherical end; and disposed about said base section to move said hat to said spherical end in response to rotation about said base section in a first direction. to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end, and to retract the hat from the spherical end in response to rotation about the base section in a second direction. a pivot control ring configured to unlock the head from the spherical end;
said tripod further comprising:
a hanging hook, the hanging hook comprising:
a first end defining a hook configured to carry a weighted object;
A second, opposite the hook, attached to the distal end of the central column opposite the head and configured to prevent the distal end from passing through the central bore of the hub. an end;
including
The camera platform is
further comprising a camera lock ring, said camera lock ring
located proximal to said pivot control ring;
concentric with the pivot control ring, and
A tripod configured to move the locking tab toward the rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the rail.

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